Bands & artists like Aaliyah

If you like Aaliyah, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to Aaliyah? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Tinashe

Tinashe

Guide

Tinashe blends contemporary R&B with electronic elements and a minimalist production style, reminiscent of Aaliyah's groove-driven sound.

alternative R&B hip-hop
SZA

SZA

Guide

SZA's alternative R&B approach features introspective lyrics and smooth melodies that echo Aaliyah's emotive vocal delivery and sonic textures.

alternative R&B contemporary R&B hip-hop
Jhené Aiko

Jhené Aiko

Guide

Jhené Aiko's ethereal vocals and fusion of R&B with ambient soundscapes create a similar intimate atmosphere found in Aaliyah's music.

alternative R&B contemporary R&B hip-hop
Kali Uchis

Kali Uchis

Kali Uchis combines R&B, funk, and soul influences with a dreamy aesthetic that parallels Aaliyah’s unique blend of genres.

contemporary R&B
Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean

Guide

Frank Ocean's innovative approach to R&B and his use of layered vocals and atmospheric production align closely with Aaliyah's artistic vision.

alternative R&B avant-pop contemporary R&B
FKA twigs

FKA twigs

Guide

FKA twigs incorporates experimental sounds and haunting vocal performances, creating an avant-garde take on R&B that resonates with Aaliyah's style.

trip hop
Ciara

Ciara

Guide

Ciara’s blend of hip-hop and R&B, along with her rhythmic vocal delivery, captures the same danceable essence present in Aaliyah’s tracks.

contemporary R&B crunk pop music
Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu

Guide

Erykah Badu’s neo-soul style features jazzy instrumentation and soulful vocals that evoke the same emotional depth found in Aaliyah’s music.

neo soul soul

Common questions

Who sounds like Aaliyah?

Artists similar to Aaliyah include Tinashe, SZA, Jhené Aiko and Kali Uchis. Each shares elements of Aaliyah's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Aaliyah?

Aaliyah is primarily known for contemporary R&B, funk and hip-hop. Aaliyah's music pulses with a minimalist groove, where rhythm and melody intertwine seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive.

Where should I start if I like Aaliyah?

If you enjoy Aaliyah, start with Tinashe — their album "Joyride" is a great entry point. Tinashe blends contemporary R&B with electronic elements and a minimalist production style, reminiscent of Aaliyah's groove-driven sound.